Tagore’s Sister - A Woman of Substance

 Review by Ronica Wahi


Swarnaa

By Raj Gopal Singh Verma

First published: October 21, 2023, Penguin Swadesh.

Pages: 192.

ISBN: 9780143463368

In beautiful Hindi prose, Raj Gopal Singh Verma has told the beautiful story of a beautiful person, Swarnaa.

While her brother Rabindranath Tagore is known the world over and to a lesser extent, some of her other family members are familiar names in India, Swarnakumari Devi or Swarnaa - as she was lovingly called - remains relatively unknown. This is sad considering that she proved a pioneer in multiple ways; and registered her contributions to the literary, social, and political life of India.

Raj Gopal Singh Verma has recreated the life of this important figure in history – starting right from her childhood in 1850s-60s, which were significant decades in Indian history. As the reader progresses through Swarnaa, he/she witnesses – so vivid is the use of language – the journey and the growth of the protagonist. Her experiences, trials and tribulations, learning, works all come to life in this narrative.

The most inspiring part of Swarnaa’s story is her immense dedication and therefore, contribution towards the future of the country and the future of its women. Hers is a story truly worth reading because she is indeed among those women who played a key role in transforming for the better the lives of women. And she did so amidst challenges – personal and social.

Swarnaa is also worth reading for it will add to the reader’s knowledge and understanding of the second half of the 19th century and the early years of the 20th. It is also worth reading for the carefully put together yet seemingly easy-flowing words; the language is refined and the vocabulary rich yet the story seems to be simply narrated.

The author has indeed made a significant contribution through this work by telling a forgotten though crucial life story.

Recommended!

 

Do read the review on The Lady of Two Nations, another wonderful work by Raj Gopal Singh Verma, here.

 

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